Eddie Dowling

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Eddie Dowling (December 11, 1889[1] - February 18, 1976) was an actor, screenwriter, playwright, producer, songwriter and composer.

He was christened Joseph Narcisse Gaucher on December 15, 1889 at l'Eglise du Précieux Sang (Precious Blood church) as one of almost 20 children born to an Irish and French-Canadian couple in Woonsocket, Rhode Island. He took his professional surname from the maiden name of his mother, Bridget Mary Dowling, who was born in Smithfield, Rhode Island. His father was Charles Gaucher who was born in St. Marcel, Province of Québec, Canada.[2]

He appeared on stage for many years.[3] His most famous role was as "Tom Wingfield" in the original Broadway production of The Glass Menagerie, opposite Laurette Taylor and Julie Haydon. He produced the play's original Chicago production in 1944, and followed it to Broadway.[3]

He was married to the Glasgow-born actress and stage performer, Rachel "Ray" Dooley, who specialized in physical comedy; they had two children, Jack and Maxine.

Eddie Dowling died in Smithfield, Rhode Island, aged 86.

[edit] References

  1. ^ (baptismal records of Precious Blood church, Woonsocket, Rhode Island)
  2. ^ (baptismal records of Precious Blood church, Woonsocket, Rhode Island)
  3. ^ a b Cullen, Frank and Hackman, Florence (2006). Vaudeville, Old and New: An Encyclopedia of Variety Performers in America, pp. 322-23. Routledge. ISBN 0415938538.